Definition

Intrathecal pain pump insertion is a procedure to help with pain management. A small pump will be inserted in your body. The pump will be able to deliver pain medication to the area around your spinal cord.

Reasons for Procedure

This pain management technique is often only used if noninvasive pain management has failed or has negative side effects.
An intrathecal pain pump can be used to manage long-term pain problems caused by:

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Before the surgery, you will undergo a trial to see if the pump will actually decrease your pain. Pain medication will be injected into the area around your spine one or more times. In some test trials, a catheter may be placed in the area around your spine. The catheter is then connected to an external pump. The proper placement of the catheter and ideal dose of medication for you will also be found in the trial period.

Anesthesia

Description of the Procedure

A small incision will be made in the middle of the back. The catheter is placed in a space near the spinal cord and secured with stitches. An x-ray machine will be used to make sure the catheter is in the right place. Once secured, the catheter is run from the spine to the abdomen where the pump is placed. The catheter is run under the skin.

After the abdomen is opened with a small incision, the pump is put in place below the waistline. The pump will sit in a pocket that is made between the skin and muscles. The catheter will be attached to the pump. After the pump is secured, stitches will be used to close the incision.

After Procedure

After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery area. Your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing will be monitored. The staff will watch for potential side effects, like:

Walk short distances at first, and after 2 weeks, gradually increase to 1-2 miles daily.

Be sure to follow your doctor's
instructions.

You will need to carry an Implanted Device identification card because the pump will set off metal detectors. The battery in your pump will need to be replaced every 5-7 years. You will need to go for regular visits to your doctor to have the pump reservoir refilled with medication at regular intervals.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occur:

Redness, swelling, pain, or discharge around the incision site

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Pain that is not controlled with pain medications

Sudden back pain

Loss of bowel or bladder function

Headache lasting longer than 48 hours

Beeping noises from pump

Sudden onset of leg weakness and spasm

New numbness or tingling

Nausea and/or vomiting

Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain

Opioid withdrawal symptoms may include:

Rapid breathing

Sweating

Runny nose

Agitation

Increased heart rate

Fever

Tremors

Twitching or aching muscles

Loss of appetite

Abdominal cramps or diarrhea

If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

The health information in this Health Library is provided by a third party. Cartersville Medical Center does not in any way create the content of this information. It is provided solely for informational purposes. It does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to be a substitute for proper medical care provided by a physician. Always consult with your doctor for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing, and care recommendations. Do not rely on information on this site as a tool for self-diagnosis. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.